As Cuba was in the process of restoring electricity following a nationwide blackout, another collapse of the electrical grid occurred, causing alarm across the country. The blackout left many without power, with issues such as spoiled food, closed stores, and limited access to essential services. The government had previously attempted to prevent a total blackout by implementing energy-saving measures, but the aging infrastructure, increasing energy demand, and fuel shortages have contributed to chronic power outages.
President Miguel Díaz-Canel and Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez blamed the ongoing U.S. embargo for the lack of fuel and hard currency necessary to maintain the electrical system. They warned that blackouts would continue regularly until the embargo is lifted. The economic crisis in Cuba has been exacerbated by tightened U.S. sanctions and the impact of the pandemic on tourism, leading to shortages in food, medicine, water, and fuel.
The lack of oil shipments from Venezuela, as well as decreased shipments from other traditional suppliers like Russia and Mexico, has further strained the situation. This economic crisis has led to a significant increase in migration, with over one million Cubans leaving the island between 2022 and 2023. The situation in Cuba remains challenging, with the government struggling to meet the needs of the population in the face of ongoing economic hardships.
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